The potential for infection or transmitted diseases may deter you from obtaining a tattoo or body piercing. If you are a first time tattoo or piercing client, you depend on the professional performing the procedure to provide a safe environment and possess the technique, skill and background to provide you with a quality piece of body art.
Sanitation
When receiving a tattoo or piercing in a professional shop, you will observe the artist performing duties for sanitation purposes. Washing hands before and after procedures, drying the hands with a paper towel and immediately donning a pair of gloves before touching any surface is a sign that your artist intends to provide a sanitary environment, according to the Association of Professional Piercers. Body modification artists also spray hard surfaces, such as work stations and chairs, with a hospital level germicidal before and after each client to ensure that contaminated blood is not present and to prevent transferring pathogens to future clients.
Sterilization
Sterilization is the most important part of a tattoo artist's or piercer's job. When entering a shop for a procedure you should request to see the shop's sterilization room, autoclave and spore test results from the autoclave before considering a tattoo or piercing from that location. Each tattoo and piercing room or station should have labeled receptacles for needle disposal. Needles in the shop must be sterilized before the procedure and used once and only on one client. The artist deposits the needle into the receptacle immediately after the procedure. If you are receiving a tattoo, the tube and needle will be encased in a sterile pouch and the artist will open the package in front of you while wearing gloves, according to the Alliance of Professional Tattooists. When receiving a piercing, the needle, jewelry and any disposables the piercer is planning to use, such as gauze, is in a sterile pouch.
Professionalism
Professional tattoo and piercing artists will treat you with respect and understanding. Tattoos and piercings are invasive procedures and the artist should fully answer all of your questions and ensure that you are comfortable with all aspects of the procedure before you fill out a release form. Depending on the placement of your tattoo and piercing, you may have to remove articles of clothing. If your genitals will be exposed during the procedure, the artist should provide a privacy screen or private room while performing the procedure.
Education
When deciding on the artist to perform your tattoo or piercing, talk to him about education in addition to an apprenticeship. Certification in blood borne pathogens and sterilization training will be displayed in an artist's portfolio or on the walls at the shop. An educational background in anatomy is beneficial to the training of a tattoo artist and piercer as well as certification in CPR.
Pricing
Though some shops may offer inexpensive tattoos or piercings, the price may indicate a lack of experience and education. If you want a safe experience and a tattoo or piercing performed with sterile instruments, quality ink or appropriate jewelry, the procedure will not be inexpensive. Most professional and quality shops' pricing reflects the quality of the tattoo and piercing you are receiving.
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